Having a cat can mean different things to different people. Some want a cat to cuddle and sit on their laps; others are happy to live with a very independent cat which spends most of its time outside and doesn’t want too much human interaction.

What is important is that you try to find a cat that will interact with you if you want it to. All cats are not the same and how each individual cat behaves with you can depend on its inherent personality and early experiences (or lack of experiences), which can make it fearful or confident with people and life in general.

The environment in which you keep a cat is also extremely significant – for example if it lives with many other cats which do not get on, then it will be stressed and will react differently than if it was on its own.

While there is no guaranteed way to choose the perfect cat for you and your lifestyle, understanding your expectations as well as what makes cats tick will help you to bring home a cat that should be able to cope with its new environment and be the pet that you want too.

To care for a cat you will need to:

Provide plenty of human companionship

Provide regular, suitable meals with a constant supply of fresh water

Provide a clean and comfortable bed

Provide the cat with outdoor access or be prepared to empty and clean a litter tray on a daily basis

Provide it with a stimulating and safe environment

Groom it regularly. Longhaired cats require daily grooming

Have it neutered between 4 and 6 months old

Vaccinate against the major feline diseases regularly

Worm regularly and provide treatment for fleas

Take the cat to the vet when it shows any sign of illness

Insure your cat or make sure you can afford the cost of any veterinary treatment it may need.